How to Talk to a Loved One About Getting an Eye Exam

Why People Put It Off

Even people who take their health seriously tend to delay eye exams. It’s common to hear:

• “My vision hasn’t changed.”

• “I can still read fine.”

• “I don’t need glasses yet.”

• “I just don’t have time.”

But eye exams aren’t just about updating a prescription. They’re also a way to catch serious conditions early—including glaucoma, cataracts, macular degeneration, and even signs of diabetes or high blood pressure.

Skipping them doesn’t just risk blurry vision—it can affect overall health, mobility, and quality of life.

When You’ve Mentioned It and Nothing Changed

It can be frustrating when you’ve already brought it up, maybe more than once. You want to be helpful, not nagging. You’re coming from a place of love—but they might hear it as criticism or pressure.

Instead of repeating the same message, try shifting how you approach the conversation. Empathy and curiosity often go further than facts alone.

How to Start the Conversation (Without a Lecture)

Here are some ways to ease into it:

• Notice a specific moment. “I saw you squinting at the screen earlier—have your eyes been feeling different lately?”

• Make it about connection. “I want to make sure you’re seeing clearly when we’re out driving or watching movies together. Would you be open to getting your eyes checked?”

• Share your own experience. “I didn’t realize how much I was missing until I got my last eye exam. Everything’s sharper now—it’s wild.”

• Offer to go with them. “If it feels like a hassle, we could book ours at the same time and make a day of it.”

What to Say If They Resist

If they say…

• “I don’t need glasses.” “Totally fair—and you might not! But some changes happen so gradually we don’t notice. The exam’s just a check-up, like any other.”

• “I hate those tests.” “Yeah, they’re not fun. But they’re quick—and it’s worth it to protect your vision long-term.”

• “It’s too expensive.” “A lot of places offer free or low-cost exams—and if you have insurance, it’s often covered. I’m happy to help look into options.”

Ways You Can Support Them

Sometimes the barrier isn’t the exam—it’s everything around it. You can offer to:

• Help find a nearby optometrist or clinic.

• Look into whether insurance covers the visit.

• Book the appointment for or with them.

• Drive them there or go with them for company.

• Follow up with glasses or contacts if needed.

Why It Matters

Vision loss happens gradually. Many people don’t realize how much they’ve been compensating—until they can see clearly again. But beyond sharper eyesight, regular exams can catch serious issues early, when they’re easiest to treat.

Whether they need glasses, treatment, or just peace of mind, an eye exam can make a meaningful difference. You’re not being pushy—you’re looking out for someone you care about.

We Can Help You Get Started

At Helpful, we support people in navigating all kinds of care conversations—including everyday things like eye exams. We can help you:

• Find affordable or in-network vision care

• Understand what’s included in an eye exam

• Talk through concerns with empathy, not pressure

We’re here to make it easier to care for the people you love—and yourself.